Six novice abseilers tackled the west face of Canterbury Cathedral on Saturday afternoon in a unique fundraising event.

The Lord Mayor of Canterbury, Lewis Norris, and the local MP Julian Brazier, were among those taking on the 200ft drop.

The event was agreed by the Dean and Chapter as "a one-off" for the Lady Mayoress of Canterbury, Ann Norris.

The event was raising funds for the cancer charity Odyssey.

'Great privilege'

It was the first time the Dean of the cathedral had given permission for such an event to take place.

"I never thought he would allow it but he has, however he probably won't do it ever again," said Mrs Norris before the event.

"It will be a special day and a great privilege."

Those taking part included Colin Carmichael, the chief executive of Canterbury City Council, John Meardon and Heather Newton from the cathedral, and Richard Cooke who won an auction on BBC Radio Kent with a bid of £1,600.

Mrs Norris said all six participants were very nervous about stepping over the edge, but knew they were raising a huge amount of money for a great cause.